Composer

:

Domenico Natale Sarro

Genre

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1718

First Performance

:

December 17, 1718

Average_duration

:

2:00

'Arsace' is an opera seria in three acts composed by Domenico Natale Sarro. The opera was first performed on January 14, 1730, at the Teatro San Bartolomeo in Naples, Italy. The libretto was written by Pietro Metastasio, one of the most famous librettists of the time. The plot of 'Arsace' revolves around the love triangle between Arsace, a Persian prince, Semira, the daughter of the king of the Parthians, and Mirteo, a Parthian prince. Arsace and Semira are in love, but their relationship is complicated by the fact that Arsace is the son of the Persian king, who is at war with the Parthians. Mirteo is also in love with Semira and is determined to win her hand in marriage. The first act of the opera introduces the characters and sets up the love triangle. The second act features a series of dramatic confrontations between the characters, including a duel between Arsace and Mirteo. The third act resolves the conflict, with Arsace and Semira finally able to be together. The music of 'Arsace' is typical of the opera seria style, with arias, recitatives, and ensemble numbers. The arias are characterized by their virtuosic vocal lines and elaborate ornamentation. The orchestration is relatively simple, with a small ensemble of strings, winds, and continuo. The premiere of 'Arsace' was a great success, and the opera went on to be performed throughout Italy and Europe. The opera was particularly popular in Vienna, where it was performed in German translation under the title 'Arsaces'. The opera was also performed in London, where it was well-received by audiences and critics. Overall, 'Arsace' is a typical example of the opera seria genre, with a complex plot, virtuosic vocal writing, and elaborate musical ornamentation. The opera remains an important work in the history of Italian opera and is still occasionally performed today.

More....